Kiki Goshay

"Sure, I can remember what it was like to be a teen.

But I can’t possibly feel what it is like to be a teen in this interconnected, technology driven world today. I thought, as the mother to teens I had some insight. But I didn’t know the half of it...until I had the privilege of listening to teens sharing with each other. Jacqueline had the ability to initiate an open and honest dialogue about mental illness with her peers. Their conversations impressed upon me the urgency to open this dialogue to all teens.

I don’t think anything is more compelling than witnessing someone being completely open and vulnerable. These teens’ stories will resonate with those who feel hopeless and restore “hope”. And that will save lives. Hopelessness is the driving force behind suicide.

What an honor it has been to have gotten to know all of the insightful youths who shared their stories. I am so lucky to have been able to wrap my arms around each of them. They came to this project out of concern for others. To do what they can with what they have experienced. They have taught me so much and made me feel even more. I hope every teen who watches this film feels the love they are sending out. Wish I could give them all a squeeze.

I am committed to empowering teens to express themselves and help them make the changes they want in their world. They are truly the experts here.”

Kiki Goshay has worked on both documentary and narrative films. She produced the narrative film, 'The Job', directed by Shem Bitterman and starring Ron Perlman, Joey Pantoliano, Taryn Manning and Patrick Flueger. She executive produced the documentary, “How to Eat Your Watermelon in White Company and Enjoy it.” As an advocate for the environment, health and children’s issues, Kiki serves on the boards of Greenlight Clinic, a free mental health clinic for 14-26 year olds; Cool the Earth and Captain Planet Foundation and She became a licensed foster care parent in 2012.